Mathematics for Teacher Certification

The Mathematics Minor for Teacher Certification is for Secondary Education majors who want to add a Math component to their teaching portfolio. This pairs easily with the Natural Science Teaching major, but can be added to any Secondary Education program.

Education majors (both Elementary and Secondary/Middle) can also consider the STEM Certificate for Teaching.

Consists of at least 30 credits:
1. Required (26 cr): Math 225, 226, 230, 340 and M Ed 334, 335, 340

2. Complete 2a OR 2b below (at least 4 cr):

a. Math 350, M Ed 350.
b. Math 356, 357.

For more information visit the UW-Stevens Point course catalog.

Applied Mathematics

A Mathematics minor shows employers and graduate schools that you have strong analytical skills! Plus, a minor does not require many additional courses, especially for math-intensive majors like Business, Chemistry, Physics or PSEN. If you take Calculus I and II, you’re almost halfway to a minor.

Description – Consists of 26 credits:
1. Mathematics 225, 226, 230.

2. Complete two from the following courses: Math 310, 315, 356, 357.

3. Complete two additional courses from Math 227, 305, 310, 315, 320, 356, 357, 362, 367.

For more information visit the UW-Stevens Point course catalog.

Mathematics: Education Option

PREPARE TO LEAD WITH A SECONDARY/MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHING DEGREE IN MATHEMATICS

The UW-Stevens Point mathematics education major is an undergraduate program that focuses on the knowledge, skills and dispositions needed to teach mathematics to students, grades 4-12. Successful candidates in the program earn a bachelor’s degree and a Wisconsin teaching license in mathematics education.

Praised for its program outcomes, graduation and retention rates, advising services, student organization opportunities and vast program options, UW-Stevens Point was ranked second in the U.S. on Study.com’s Best Colleges for Education Majors list.

Department of Mathematical Sciences

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Why study Mathematics Education at UW-Stevens Point?

UW-Stevens Point graduates in the School of Education typically have some of the highest career outcome rates in full-time teaching jobs within their first year after graduation across the UW System. Mathematics education graduates are well prepared to teach children in diverse classroom settings. This option is structured to ensure students satisfy the licensing requirements for secondary teacher certification by completing dedicated geometry and statistics courses containing integrated educational methods.

ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVISING SCHOLARSHIPS AND AID MAJOR MAP

Scholarships and Awards

High-achieving students are eligible for many significant awards and scholarships thanks to generous support from our alumni, friends, and corporate partners. We have scholarship opportunities for fall and spring semester, with selections determined by the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

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Kameron Anderson ’23

Hired Before Graduation

Mathematics Education

Kameron Anderson ’23 was hired before graduation at P.J. Jacobs Junior High School in Stevens Point as a math teacher.

#HiredPointers

Ranked #2 in the U.S.

For the second year in a row, the education program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has been ranked second in the nation according to Study.com.

STUDY.COM RANKING

WHAT TO EXPECT

The Mathematics Education major will complete dedicated geometry and statistics courses containing integrated educational methods. Additional mathematics courses from the areas of analysis, abstract algebra, and discrete mathematics provide a comprehensive content preparation. Additional educational training in mathematics teaching technology, mathematics educational methods, and the history of mathematics ensure subject competency. A secondary/middle school student teaching experience completes the requirements for this major.

Gain Experience Outside the Classroom

Our program provides students with frequent opportunities for hands-on learning in PK-12 classrooms and schools. This includes practicum experiences working with school-aged children early and often throughout the program.

Student teaching is the culminating experience in the teacher candidate’s academic program of study at UW-Stevens Point. It provides an opportunity for teacher candidates to practice and refine their knowledge and skills under the supervision and guidance of cooperating teachers and our own faculty who have dedicated their careers to education and a lifetime of student learning.

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Through volunteer opportunities and varied professional development opportunities, students will be active learners closely involved in real-world situations designed to ensure your professional success.

Our students are academically engaged, highly motivated and actively involved at the local, state, national and international levels. Student organizations are vital to pre-professional experiences. As such, the School of Education sponsors the following organizations: Aspiring Educators, Association for the Education of Young Children, Kappa Delta Pi, Student Council for Exceptional Children, and Math Club, which is sponsored by the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

MEET YOUR FACULTY

The Department of Mathematical Sciences has about 20 faculty members. They have interests in topology, geometry, actuarial mathematics, probability and statistics, and operations research. The department includes three Mathematics Education professors who manage the teacher education programs and perform scholarship in the mathematics education field.

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DPI ACCREDITATION

UW-Stevens Point’s teacher education programs are accredited by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

Astronomy

The minor in astronomy will help prepare UW-Stevens Point students for entry into the competitive science, technology, engineering and mathematics workplace. The minor complements any science major, which can give students an advantage securing employment in education, industry, science museums and observatories, among other potential employers.

OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY

The program includes in its core courses a new Observational Astronomy class that takes advantage of the Arthur J. Pejsa Observatory, located in our Science Building. UWSP is the second comprehensive UW institution to offer such a program.

According to Professor Brad Hinaus, “The astronomy minor provides students the opportunity to explore some of the most exciting topics in modern-age science, from the feasibility of colonizing Mars to the discovery of habitable planets orbiting other stars, from the exotic black holes lurking at the cores of large galaxies to the elusive neutrinos and gravitational waves that expand our view into the universe. Students minoring in astronomy gain exposure to the principles of astronomy, physics and mathematics. They learn to think critically and evaluate, interpret and solve problems related to the astronomical, as well as other technical and general scientific topics.”

In addition to the Pejsa Observatory, students will also use the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium, which is used as an immersive instructional tool for most astronomy courses required to complete the minor.

The astronomy minor consists of a minimum of 24 credits. For more information visit the UW-Stevens Point course catalog.

PHYS 203 – College Physics I (5 cr.) or PHYS 240 – University Physics I (5 cr.)
PHYS 204 – College Physics II (5 cr.) or PHYS 250 – University Physics II (5 cr.)
ASTR 205 – The Solar System (4 cr.)
ASTR 206 – Stars and Stellar Systems (4 cr.)
ASTR 306 – Observational Astronomy (3 cr.)
ASTR 305 – The History of Astronomy (3 cr.) or PHYS 384 – Astrophysics (3 cr.)

When you decide to minor in astronomy, register in the department office to be assured of proper advising. To be accepted as a minor you must have a minimum grade point average of 2.00, regardless of a declaration of academic bankruptcy. The department may grant exceptions. No more than one grade below C- in physics and astronomy courses numbered 300 or above may be applied to the minor.

For more information on the astronomy minor, contact Adriana Durbala at Adriana.Durbala@uwsp.edu or Sebastian Zamfir at Sebastian.Zamfir@uwsp.edu

Physics

A minor in physics gives you an outstanding foundation for understanding science and technology. By succeeding in a challenging field of study, you will be able to distinguish yourself when you start a job or a career!

The physics minor consists of the following:

A minimum of 25 credits including Physics 111, 240, 250, 300 and other physics courses numbered above 300 not including 390 and 490. At least one elective must include a laboratory.
Math 225, 226, 227.
A minor in physics is certifiable for teaching only when accompanied by a certificate in another science (biology, chemistry, earth and space science, or environmental science) as part of the Natural Science for Science Teaching Certification degree.
When you decide to minor in physics, register in the department office to be assured of proper advising. To be accepted as a minor you must have a minimum grade point average of 2.00 (2.75 to student teach), regardless of a declaration of academic bankruptcy. The department may grant exceptions. No more than one grade below C- in physics courses numbered 300 or above may be applied to the minor.

For more information visit the UW-Stevens Point course catalog.

Physics with Applied Mechanics Emphasis

This is one of the two applied tracks within the physics major aimed at the students who will pursue a career in industry right after graduation. You will take most of the core upper-level physics courses, especially those with a laboratory component. To major in physics with Applied Mechanics Emphasis you are required to participate in an industrial internship. This can take place either at a local business or in London through the Study Abroad Program.

Please consult with the Applied Emphasis Coordinator when planning your major. Some physics courses are offered only in alternate years.

Department of Physics and Astronomy

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Why study Physics with Applied Mechanics Emphasis at UW-Stevens Point?

The Department of Physics and Astronomy can help you find satisfying and appropriate employment upon completion of your degree. Graduates have found work as applications engineers, chemists, contractors, combat engineers, researchers, system administrators and teachers. Graduates have also pursued further schooling in aeronautical engineering, applied physics, astronomy, civil and environmental engineering, mathematics, nuclear engineering and security technologies.

Physics majors at UW-Stevens Point can also enjoy study abroad opportunities, including academic coursework at sites worldwide, London internships and short travel courses covering specialized topics.

ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVISING SCHOLARSHIPS AND AID MAJOR MAP

Scholarships and Awards

The Department of Physics and Astronomy recognizes outstanding students at the annual School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics and Astronomy Awards. In 2026, a total of $55,000 was awarded thanks to our generous donors and endowed scholarships.

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Study Abroad

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REQUIREMENTS:

The physics major with an applied mechanics emphasis consists of a minimum of 61 credits including:

Math 225, 226, 227, 230.
Chemistry 105 or 117.
Physics 111, 240, 250, 300, 315, 335, 370, 435, 470.
Physics 490 (6 credits).
Economics 110 or Business 320.

More information available on UW-Stevens Point course catalog.

Applied Emphasis Coordinator:
Chris Verzani
Associate Professor

Office: SCI B103
Email: cverzani@uwsp.edu

GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS

Students interested in engaging with the professional community may get involved in the Society of Physics Students at UWSP. More opportunities can be found on the Stevens Point Involvement Network (SPIN).

Many students in the department are employed in relevant positions during their studies. Research assistants, tutors, graders, planetarium staff members and laboratory assistants are often hired by the department. In addition, a number of scholarships provide financial support to physics majors.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is a member of the Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium (WSGC). Our students have the opportunity to apply for various types of undergraduate programs and scholarships. Find out if any of these might be right for you.

MEET YOUR FACULTY

UW-Stevens Point physics classes are small, and students majoring in physics are able to work directly with faculty early in their academic careers. Faculty conduct research in areas such as astrophysics, optoelectronics, materials science, liquid crystals and femtosecond lasers.

Archives: Faculty / Staff Profiles – Faculty / Staff Directory

Physics and Engineering Dual

YOUR ENGINEERING CAREER STARTS AT UW-STEVENS POINT WITH THE PHYSICS-ENGINEERING DUAL-DEGREE PROGRAM

The physics-engineering dual-degree program at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point provides a broad base of skills designed to integrate with a variety of UW System engineering programs.

Students can earn a degree in physics and a second degree in engineering in just five years. This comprehensive program allows you to gain expertise for a career in biomedical, civil, electrical, industrial, materials or mechanical engineering.

Department of Physics and Astronomy

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Why study Physics and Engineering at UW-Stevens Point?

You can earn both a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from UW-Stevens Point and a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from UW-Milwaukee in a total time of five years! Approximately three years (roughly 90-95 credits) of the program are spent at UW-Stevens Point and approximately two years (roughly 60 credits) at UW-Milwaukee. Note: The start of the five-year timeline corresponds with enrollment in MATH 225 (Calculus I) at UW-Stevens Point. There are many variables that affect the time to degree for each individual student.

ACADEMIC AND CAREER ADVISING SCHOLARSHIPS AND AID 3 +2 Track

Scholarships and Awards

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UW-Stevens Point Dual-Degree Program Course Requirements

Complete all requirements of UW-Stevens Point’s General Education Program (GEP) for the physics B.S. major. UW-Milwaukee accepts UW-Stevens Point credits to satisfy its own general education requirements for students.

Complete a core set of required courses in physics, mathematics, and chemistry. These include:

Math 225, 226, 227, 230, 320.
Chemistry 105, 106 (Chemistry 117 may be replaced for the 105/106 sequence.)
Physics 240, 250, 300, 315, 470.

Please note that some required core engineering courses (Statics, Dynamics, Engineering Thermodynamics, Mechanics of Materials, etc.) can be completed at UW-Stevens Point at Wausau. You may take these courses either in person or online. Please consult with the dual-degree program coordinator for more details.

Complete two elective upper-level courses in physics, in addition to the core courses. The elective courses may be chosen from the following:

Physics 320, 335, 370, 385, 405, 435.

Note: Whether elective courses will satisfy your future engineering requirements is dependent upon the specific elective courses and the specific engineering program to which you are admitted at UW-Milwaukee.

UW-Stevens Point students who meet all course requirements with a GPA of 2.5 or higher will be admitted to an engineering program at UW-Milwaukee.

For more information visit the UW-Stevens Point course catalog. Choose “Academic Programs” and scroll down to “Physics and Engineering, BS Dual-Degree (3 + 2 Track)”

UW-Milwaukee Dual-Degree Program Course Requirements

Complete the remaining core engineering courses required for your engineering degree.

When a minimum of 30 credits of required core engineering courses is completed, students may submit a UW-Milwaukee transcript to UW-Stevens Point for credit transfer. UW-Stevens Point will accept 30 credits of core engineering courses completed at UW-Milwaukee to fulfill the remaining requirements for the physics bachelor’s degree.

Dual-Degree Program Coordinator

Professor Maryam Farzaneh
Office: SCI-B105
Email: mfarzane@uwsp.edu

MEET YOUR FACULTY

Archives: Faculty / Staff Profiles – Faculty / Staff Directory

Pre-Engineering Associate of Science

After Fall 2026, we are no longer enrolling in the program.

ACHIEVE A BROAD BASE OF KNOWLEDGE IN ENGINEERING, MATH, AND SCIENCE

The program is designed to provide transfer pathways to a variety of University of Wisconsin System baccalaureate programs and consists of 61-67 credits. The total includes 45 that satisfy general requirements, 15-20 required to provide math and basic science courses relevant to engineering, and 3-4 engineering elective credits. Pre-engineering associate degree courses are delivered primarily face-to-face, with some courses now offered 100% distance delivery.

TRANSFER TO UW SYSTEM ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

The UW-Stevens Point AS in Pre-Engineering allows for smooth transfer into engineering programs across the University of Wisconsin System, including these ABET-accredited engineering programs:

UW-Madison, UW-Platteville, UW-Milwaukee

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering
B.S. in Civil Engineering
B.S. in Electrical Engineering

UW-Stout

B.S. in Manufacturing Engineering
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Other Transfer Possibilities

Milwaukee School of Engineering, Michigan Tech, University of Minnesota-Duluth, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, and others. Your faculty adviser can assist you in evaluating other programs.

Completing the AS satisfies general education requirements at all UW System schools.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The pre-engineering curriculum gives you a solid foundation in math, chemistry, and physics to prepare you for acceptance into an engineering school. The Pre-Engineering Associate Degree also includes courses that will fully satisfy your general education requirements. You might take a few introductory engineering courses at UWSP, but the primary goal of the pre-engineering curriculum is to prepare you for the engineering courses you will take after transferring to an engineering school.

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Mathematics

SOLVE PROBLEMS AND EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS WITH A DEGREE IN MATHEMATICS FROM UW-STEVENS POINT

A Bachelor of Science degree in mathematical sciences prepares students for jobs in statistics, logistics, actuarial science, mathematical modeling and education. Our students enjoy upper level mathematics courses with 20 or fewer students to allow for individualized support. The mathematics program at UW-Stevens Point is large enough to offer a full range of courses, yet small enough to give you a chance to work directly with professors. We are also noted for our work with technology.